Gonzalez & Waddington, Attorneys at Law represent service members in RE code challenges, discharge upgrades, BCMR/DRB petitions, separation boards, Article 15 appeals, and courts-martial. If your reenlistment was denied because of the RE code on your DD-214, you may be able to change the code, amend the narrative reason, or obtain a waiver and continue your military career.

This guide explains how RE codes work, why reenlistment gets blocked, and how to appeal or correct your records across all branches.

Why RE Code Appeals Matter

• Career continuation: An unfavorable RE code can permanently bar you from reentering service — even with otherwise strong credentials.
• Benefits & retirement: Reentering service can preserve eligibility for retirement, GI Bill, bonuses, and promotions.
• Civilian opportunities: Law enforcement and federal jobs often review your DD-214, including the RE code and narrative reason.
• Accuracy & fairness: RE codes tied to weak, outdated, or unjust bases can and should be corrected.

RE Code Basics: What Your DD-214 Is Saying

Your DD-214 lists a Reenlistment Eligibility (RE) code, a Separation Program Designator (SPD), and a Narrative Reason. Together, these control your ability to reenlist or join another branch.

• Common patterns (all services): RE-1/1A = fully eligible; RE-2/2X (service-specific use) = limited eligibility; RE-3 = waiver possible; RE-4 = no reenlistment (usually requires record correction, not a simple waiver).
• Branch differences: Each service uses sub-codes and internal tables. Always read your service’s RE & SPD matrix when building your appeal.
• Root causes: RE codes often reflect Article 15s/NJP, reprimands, medical separations, failure to meet standards, or adverse evaluations.

Three Paths to Overcome a Bad RE Code

1) Recruiter Waiver Route (Fastest, Limited Scope)

For RE-3 and some sub-codes, a service recruiter can request a waiver. You must still meet current standards and manning needs. RE-4 typically is not waiverable and requires record correction.

2) Discharge Review Board (DRB) — Within 15 Years

DRBs can change the narrative reason and characterization, which often triggers a better RE code. Use DD Form 293. If the RE code itself is not changed at DRB, a better narrative reason may support a recruiter waiver.

3) Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR/BCNR/AFBCMR/CG BCMR)

The BCMR is the final administrative authority to fix RE codes, SPD codes, narrative reasons, and other records. Use DD Form 149. You must show the record is erroneous or unjust.

Step-by-Step: How to Appeal or Correct an RE Code

Step 1 — Diagnose the Record

• Obtain your DD-214, service separation packet, performance records (NCOER/OER, EPR/OPR, FITREP/CHIEFEVAL), and any NJP/reprimand files.
• Identify the SPD code and Narrative Reason driving your RE code.

Step 2 — Choose the Right Forum

• Within 15 years: File to the DRB (DD-293) for narrative reason/characterization. If necessary, follow with a BCMR (DD-149) for the RE code.
• Beyond 15 years: Go straight to the BCMR (DD-149).

Step 3 — Build Your Evidence

• Performance & conduct: Strong evals, awards, and deployments — especially post-incident.
• Medical/behavioral health: PTSD, TBI, or other diagnoses that were unconsidered or mishandled at separation.
• Due process issues: Procedural errors, lack of notice, denial of witnesses, or flawed investigations.
• Character statements: From commanders, senior NCOs, and peers addressing current reliability and rehabilitation.

Step 4 — Ask for a Specific Fix

• Be precise: request to change RE-4 to RE-3 (waiverable) or RE-1 (fully eligible), and/or change the narrative reason/SPD to a neutral code when appropriate.

Step 5 — Execute, Track, and Follow Up

• Submit the petition with all exhibits, keep copies, and monitor status.
• If the DRB helps but doesn’t fix the RE code, escalate to the BCMR.
• Once corrected, re-engage a recruiter with your updated documents.

Winning Strategies for RE Code Challenges

1) Link Correction to Equity & Readiness

Show that the code no longer reflects who you are and that the service gains a trained, ready member by correcting it.

2) Reframe the Narrative Reason

Many unfavorable RE codes flow from a harsh or inaccurate Narrative Reason. If you can change the narrative, the RE code often follows.

3) Demonstrate Rehabilitation

Highlight clean record, education, employment, community service, treatment completion, and positive references since separation.

4) Cite Regulations & Matrices

Anchor your request in the service’s RE/SPD tables and separation regs to show the correction is authorized and appropriate.

Common Mistakes That Sink RE Code Appeals

Video: Winning RE Code Appeals & Reenlistment Waivers

Why Hire Gonzalez & Waddington for RE Code Challenges?

We’ve helped Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Guardians, and Coast Guardsmen change RE codes, fix narrative reasons, win waivers, and return to service. We know the DRB/BCMR process, what evidence persuades, and how to frame your case for success.

• ✅ Deep experience with RE, SPD, and narrative reason corrections
• ✅ Proven results in DRB/BCMR petitions, reprimand/NJP appeals, and separation boards
• ✅ Published authorities on military administrative law

Contact Gonzalez & Waddington at ucmjdefense.com or call 1-800-921-8607 to start your RE code appeal today.

Frequently Asked Questions: RE Code Appeals & Reenlistment